What type of assessments are standardized tests like the ACT classified as?

Standardized tests like the ACT are classified as normative assessments because they are designed to compare and rank test-takers relative to one another. These tests provide a way to evaluate a student's performance in relation to a specific group, often referred to as a "norm group." The results indicate how a student performed compared to the average scores of peers, enabling colleges and universities to make decisions based on a standardized metric.

Normative assessments are valuable in educational settings because they create a common measure of achievement across different populations and contexts. This helps educators and policymakers understand trends and disparities in educational outcomes. The focus on comparison allows for an understanding of where a student stands relative to others, which is particularly important in college admissions processes.

In contrast, options like criterion assessments focus on whether a student meets specific standards or learning objectives without comparing performance to other students. Formative assessments are used throughout the learning process to guide instruction and provide feedback, while summative assessments evaluate student learning at the end of an instructional period.